Rowing Lessons
Sculling

In sculling, each rower has two oars, one extending from each side of the boat. Each oar is held with one hand. There are several sculling boat configurations that accommodate one, two, or four rowers.

*** No Sculling Classes in the Winter - Next Sculling Sessions will be in the Spring of 2007 ***

INFORMATION FOR SCULLING CLASSES AT LAKE MERRITT ROWING CLUB

Sculling classes are held Saturday and Sunday 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. one weekend a month (unless otherwise noted). All participants are required to be at the class for the entire 6 hours

The class covers basic equipment safety and handling, getting in/out of the boat, stroke sequencing, backing, docking and turning. When you successfully complete the class you will be allowed to row the Club's Maas Aeros, after joining the Club.

The first day of class is at the dock. The stroke sequencing is practiced on a rowing machine, after which each student has practice time in a boat while being held on the dock by a fellow student. By the end of the first day participants are rowing around close to the dock, practicing rowing, backing and turning.

On the second day, everyone rows around the lake, accompanied by an instructor in a scull or a launch giving rowing instructions and directions.

For successful completion of the class all participants will have to demonstrate correct stroke sequence, backing, turning and docking. The ability to back the boat into the dock safely, and get into and out of the boat correctly must be mastered before the students will be allowed the use of the club boats.

Please wear layered, close fitting clothing. Loose clothing may get caught in the oar handles or seat tracks and create a danger for the rower. Bring a hat, water bottle, and sunscreen. Socks are required to wear in the boat.

There is a maximum weight for rowers in our teaching boats of 220lbs. Rowers need to have the flexibility to squat for getting in and out of the boat.

To initiate the sign up process for the next available beginning sculling class, call 510-865-8479 and download the Swim Test Form and Standard Athlete's Release Form.

View the List of Swimming Centers that can complete the swim test form.

The sculling class costs $100 and checks can be made out to "LMRC".

4 people maximum per class and class may be cancelled if there is low enrollment. Mail all completed paperwork and payment to:

LMRC Sculling Coordinator

c/o Abigail Loughrey

PO Box 20703

Oakland, CA 94620

All paper work must be received by the instructor one week prior to the class start date. A spot in the class is not considered confirmed until the appropriate forms and payment are received. Please contact to get more information on how to submit this information.

NOTE: Please do not email the LMRC webmaster regarding lessons. Call the club information number listed above OR

N0 REFUND will be given if a cancellation is made less than 2 weeks prior to the class.

Sculling classes have started again for 2007.  Classes are generally scheduled once a month and are limited to four students on a first-come-first-serve basis.  Checks must be received before before your place can be reserved in the class.

  • May 12-13 9am-12pm 
  • June 2-3 9am-12pm

Questions regarding the class or information on other teaching options can be directed to

* Single scull provided courtesy of the Triton Website.